Causes of High Blood Pressure in Seniors
Can Aerobic Exercise and a Healthy Diet Plan Minimise Hypertension?
Mar 30, 2009
According to blood-pressure-monitoring.org, 16 million people in the UK have high blood pressure. Hypertension increases the risk of a stroke, heart disease, dementia and kidney disease. It places a strain on blood vessels, causing them to become clogged.
High Blood Pressure Symptoms
It is possible to have high blood pressure for years without realising it. High blood pressure symptoms include dizziness, blurred vision and headaches. As hypertension is difficult to identify, it is essential that over 50s get their blood pressure checked regularly. This allows someone with hypertension to get medication, alter their diet plan or perform appropriate aerobic exercise.
How is Blood Pressure Measured?
Blood pressure is measured using a sphygmomanometer. This involves placing a cuff around the upper-arm and inflating it before deflating it slowly. The sensor in the cuff provides information for the doctor to analyse. High blood pressure is defined as a consistently increased systolic blood pressure of 140 or over or a diastolic blood pressure of 85 or over.
The Causes of High Blood Pressure
- Obesity. The higher the body fat percentage, the greater the risk of high blood pressure. Medical studies show that obesity increases the cardiac output, volume of blood and arterial resistance. Losing weight through a revised diet plan and aerobic exercise can help to lower blood pressure.
- Tobacco products. The inhalation of smoke causes damage to the blood vessel walls, serving to harden up the arteries.
- Exercise. A lack of exercise means that a person's heart rate increases. Regular aerobic exercise can help to lower blood pressure.
- Sodium intake. Sodium regulates fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute recommends that everyone should sharply reduce their sodium intake, regardless of age, gender or race.
- Age. The likelihood of high blood pressure increases with age.
- Stress and anxiety. A team at Laval University, Quebec, followed 6,719 workers over more than seven years. Dr. Chantal Guimont said: "Our study supports the hypothesis that job strain, particularly in workers with low social support at work, may contribute to high blood pressure".
- Family history. Should a family have a history of high blood pressure, there is a far greater probability of hypertension being an issue.
- Alcohol. An excessive alcohol consumption can increase the likelihood of heart disease.
June Davison, cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said: "Incorporating physical activity into your working day will help - use the stairs instead of the lift, get off the bus one stop earlier, or park the car away from the office, so that you walk some of the way to work."
High blood pressure is a serious health risk and can be a silent killer. It is important to get regular check-ups as blood pressure symptoms are difficult to identify. Change a diet plan to include more potassium-rich fruit and vegetables and engage regularly in aerobic exercise in order to lower blood pressure to a safer level.
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